NBCUniversal names new general counsel

Kimberly Harris will succeed Rick Cotton as general counsel of NBCUniversal.

Kimberly Harris will succeed Rick Cotton as general counsel of NBCUniversal. (NBCUniversal)

Joe Flint

Rick Cotton, one of the most senior executives at NBCUniversal, is stepping down as executive vice president and general counsel of the entertainment giant after almost 25 years in the position.

Considered one of the entertainment industry's top legal minds, Cotton will remain with NBCUniversal as a senior counselor overseeing its efforts regarding Internet piracy, which has been his focus for the last few years. He is also one of the few remaining top executives from when General Electric owned the company.

Replacing Cotton is Kimberly Harris, a former member of President Obama's White House Counsel and most recently a partner at Davis Polk & Wardwell. Like Cotton, she will report directly to NBCUniversal Chief Executive Steve Burke.

“With extensive experience, proven leadership ability, and a track record of success, Kim is a great choice to guide our Law Department,” said Burke in a statement.

Besides her work in the White House, Harris was also senior counsel at the Department of Justice's criminal division.